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20-year-old suspect in Essa abduction case released on bail
September 17, 2026 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
One of two suspects arrested in Essa Township on abduction charges on Sept. 2 has been released on bail.
Samuel Kelly, 20, and Jason Demerchant, 41, were both charged with Abduction of a Person Under 16 Years of Age. Demerchant was also charged with luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication, uttering threats (cause death or bodily harm), possession of weapon for dangerous purpose and obstruct peace officer.
The two men were arrested during an early morning raid at a house in Essa Township.
Police allege a 15-year-old girl was lured to the house, provided with cannabis and alcohol, and her location was concealed from authorities who were trying to locate her.
Details regarding the raid and arrest have been guarded to protect the victim’s identity. Police have not said more suspects are being sought, citing an ongoing investigation.
Kelly spent a week in jail before a Barrie court granted him bail. He was released to his mother’s custody and remains under strict house conditions with a $6,000 surety.
Kelly is scheduled to return to court virtually next month.
Demerchant will make his next court appearance from jail.
The charges against Kelly and Demerchant have not been proven in court.
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